"India's Efforts to Secure Affordable Russian Oil Amid Tightening Sanctions" India’s state-owned refiners are expediting payments for Russian crude oil to complete transactions before expanded US sanctions take effect. These refiners now settle payments within two days instead of the usual five, aiming to secure discounted Russian oil while navigating an increasingly restricted global trade environment. The urgency stems from Washington's announcement of stricter sanctions targeting Russia’s oil industry, which are set to take effect next month. Refiners are keen to ensure transactions are completed during the “wind-down” period allowed for pre-sanctioned cargoes. At least 4.4 million barrels of Russian oil are en route to Indian ports like Jamnagar, Chennai, Paradip, and Visakhapatnam. Among these shipments is the tanker Mercury , carrying over 1 million barrels of Russian Urals crude, expected to arrive in Paradip soon. This vessel loaded its cargo in mid-December ...
In a significant move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the three-day annual conference of Director Generals and Inspector Generals of Police in Jaipur, commencing on January 5. The conference aims to tackle pressing challenges, including artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security, counter-terrorism, left-wing extremism, and narcotics smuggling. Agenda Highlights: 1. AI and Cyber Security: Deliberations on the implications and strategies related to artificial intelligence and cyber security will be at the forefront. 2. New Criminal Laws Implementation: The conference will address the implementation of recently introduced criminal laws that have replaced traditional statutes like the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Police Code, and The Evidence Act. 3. Counter-Terrorism Measures: Given the evolving landscape of terrorism, discussions will center on counter-terrorism efforts and the threat posed by figures like Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Ven...